Navy helicopters gave air cover during APJ Abdul Kalam's funeral

Chennai, Aug 1: Armed helicopters from Naval Air Station 'INS Parundu' at Ramanathapuram in Tamil Nadu maintained an 'air-cover umbrella' during the funeral of former President A P J Abdul Kalam.

"Armed helicopters from the Air station maintained an air-cover umbrella over the burial proceedings," a Defence press release said here today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi were among the VVIPs present in Rameswaram during the last rites of Kalam, who passed away on July 27.

The Navy also provided safety and air traffic cover at Mandapam civil helipad and Coast Guard helipad, it said. INS Parundu was tasked to assist in the burial proceedings of the former Supreme Commander of the services by the Eastern Naval Command.

The 'Men in White', led by the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Tamil Nadu and Puducherry), in coordination with Army, Air Force and Civil administration prepared the Ceremonial Guard. It flew in the Navy band, provided pall-bearers to stand vigil and escort the mortal remains of Kalam.

"In addition to providing parking and fuelling facilities to incoming VVIP/VIP military, charter and private aircraft, the Naval Air Station maintained a tight grip over the 15 helicopters and six planes operating in the narrow corridor to ensure seamless air operations," it added.

A forward operating base of the Indian Navy, INS Parundhu keeps vigil over the south east Indian shores, including the Gulf of Munnar and Palk Bay.